Essentially, a glamping exemption certificate allows landowners to operate a campsite or glamping site without needing a traditional site license. This certificate is issued by an authorised exempted organisation, such as the Campfire Companions Club. There is no need for planning permission for a change of use of land. Obtaining a UK exemption certificate is usually a simpler and quicker process compared to securing planning permission. It can save time and resources by avoiding the often lengthy and complex planning application process.

The process of obtaining a glamping exemption certificate through the Campfire Companions Club is as follows:

1. The land must be a minimum of 1 acre in size.

2. The site can accommodate up to five huts or pods.

3. There must be safe vehicle access.

4. A clear view of 100 meters must be maintained in each direction from the road entrance.

5. A small A5-sized Campfire Companions Club Certified sign needs to be displayed.

6. There must be a clearly marked fire point.

7. Emergency procedures must be detailed in a notice.

8. Public liability insurance is required.

9. Drinking water must be clearly marked (if the glamping units do not have an integral water supply).

10. Toilets are necessary; if they are permanent, planning permission may be required. However, they can be off gird and not require PP. If the glamping unit is self-contained with an integral toilet then this does not apply.

11. Club membership for your guests is necessary and can be obtained by simply emailing the main booker's name and email address. A monthly compilation sent via email is sufficient; there is no need to do this for each booking.

12. Membership is free.

13. No livestock should be on site 28 days before opening, and none should be present while the site is open.

 The certification process is as follows:

1. Complete an application form on https://www.campfirecompanionsclub.co.uk.

2. Schedule a site visit, costing £150 plus 25p per mile from their location near Gatwick.

3. Following the site visit, CCC will inform your local council and nearby residents within a 500m radius or those directly affected by the site.

4. Once all necessary paperwork is finalised, payment of the yearly license fee is required. The fee is £300 per year. Additionally, a camping license can be obtained for an extra £100, allowing for up to 50 tents/bell tents on site, depending on the land size.

The CCC can provide licenses for sites within national parks, sites of special scientific interest, National Landscapes (previously AONB) and green belt areas. For these sites there is an additional step where they have to seek permission from their governing body. They cannot license land with listed buildings or sites of significant historical value.

For more information please visit https://www.campfirecompanionsclub.co.uk